On June 13, Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, former Election Commissioner, posted on Facebook about the implications of disciplinary measures imposed by the Medical Council. He outlined the following points:
- Reprimand: This is a warning that the conduct was inappropriate and should not be repeated. However, the doctor can still practice normally. The reprimand is recorded in the official personnel file as a minor professional fault.
- License Suspension: The license can be suspended for a set period (e.g., 3 or 6 months), during which the doctor cannot practice medicine in any public or private hospital or personal clinic. However, they may work in other professions.
- If the Doctor Is a Hospital Executive: Even while under license suspension, the individual may continue their administrative duties and receive their salary. However, they are prohibited from performing medical tasks such as examining patients or earning extra income from medical services.
- If the Doctor Holds Other Positions: Doctors holding roles such as Deputy Police Commissioner, board member of a state enterprise, or energy company director can continue those duties and receive all benefits, as those roles are unrelated to the medical profession. Even taking on jobs like driving for Grab is allowed.
- Administrative Order: These penalties are administrative actions by the Medical Council. An appeal can be made to the Administrative Court within 90 days after the official order is issued.
- Criminal Charges: Criminal consequences might still follow. As these individuals are government officials, they could face charges under Section 157 for misconduct in office, which carries imprisonment and dismissal from public service.